WASHINGTON — The House Ethics Committee sent guidance to congressional offices Friday, reminding members of some congressional ethics rules that shouldn't be overlooked as Congress, like every other civilian agency, must cut 8% from its budget over the next six months.

"With significant public discussion of government offices finding unusual ways to address pending budget cuts, the committee wishes to remind all offices that the ethics rules, laws and standards of conduct remain in effect and may be relevant as you consider various methods of savings," said the "pink sheet" memo from House Ethics Chairman Mike Conaway, R-Texas, and ranking Democrat Linda Sánchez, D-Calif.

No dipping: Members can't use their campaign funds to pay staffers to do official work — or for mailings, furniture or equipment. Cars, cellphones, travel and official gifts are OK.

No volunteering: Congressional staffers on unpaid leave because of the furlough cannot work without pay.

No moonlighting: House staffers on furlough are still House employees, and "all rules regarding outside employment remain in effect." Though those rules don't ban outside employment, there are limits: Senior staff can't earn more than $26,955, no outside work can be done in House offices, and the work can't overlap or conflict with official duties.